Few things are more stressful than finding a water stain on your ceiling—or worse, a slow drip coming from above. And if you’re like most homeowners, your first question is:
“Will my homeowners insurance cover this roof leak?”
The short answer?
It depends on what caused the leak.
At Browns Roofing, we’ve walked hundreds of homeowners through the roof repair and insurance process. In this article, we break down exactly when your policy will help—and when it won’t—so you can make smart, timely decisions if your roof starts leaking.
🛠️ When Is a Roof Leak Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
Homeowners insurance usually covers roof leaks if the damage was caused by a sudden, accidental event—especially one that was out of your control. These are some common examples of covered scenarios:
- âś… Hailstorms
- âś… Wind damage (like shingles blown off during a hurricane)
- âś… Falling trees or debris
- âś… Lightning strikes
- âś… Fire or vandalism
If your policy includes wind and hail coverage, and the leak was caused by one of these events, there’s a good chance your insurance will pay for repairs—or even a full roof replacement, if necessary.
đź“Ś Note: Some coastal Louisiana policies have separate wind/hurricane deductibles, so double-check your coverage limits and exclusions.
🚫 When Roof Leaks Aren’t Covered
Unfortunately, not all roof leaks are created equal in the eyes of your insurer.
If the leak is caused by lack of maintenance, age, or normal wear and tear, it likely won’t be covered. Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their roofs regularly.
Common exclusions include:
- ❌ Leaks from old, worn-out roofing
- ❌ Missing flashing or damaged seals due to neglect
- ❌ Clogged gutters causing overflow and water intrusion
- ❌ Mold or rot that developed slowly over time
Rule of thumb: If the leak happened gradually or could have been prevented, your insurer will probably deny the claim.
🕵️‍♂️ What to Do If You Discover a Leak
If you notice water stains, dripping, or ceiling discoloration, don’t wait. Here’s what we recommend:
- Contain the damage – Use buckets, towels, or tarps to stop the spread.
- Take photos – Document the leak and any damage to ceilings, walls, or belongings.
- Call Browns Roofing – We’ll perform a professional inspection and help identify the cause.
- Contact your insurance company – File a claim if the damage is likely covered.
- Get everything in writing – From estimates to adjuster visits to final claim decisions.
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners work directly with insurance companies, and we know how to speak their language.
đź“„ Will Insurance Cover the Whole Roof or Just the Leak?
This is a common question—and a smart one.
If the damage is localized, the insurer may only cover a small repair. But if the roof is older or the storm compromised a large portion, your claim could justify a full roof replacement.
The key? Documentation and inspection. Browns Roofing provides detailed reports, photos, and storm data to support your claim.
đź’¸ Pro Tip: Don’t Pay Out of Pocket Until You Talk to Us
Many homeowners rush to fix the leak before checking with insurance—then discover it would have been covered. Don’t make that mistake.
Browns Roofing offers free inspections and insurance assistance, so you’ll know exactly where you stand before spending a dime.
🧰 Prevent Roof Leaks Before They Start
Most insurance policies won’t help with slow leaks or damage from neglect—so staying ahead of problems is crucial. Here are a few tips:
- Schedule an annual roof inspection, especially after storms
- Keep gutters clean and debris off the roof
- Replace missing shingles or flashing quickly
- Watch for sagging, stains, or damp attic insulation
📞 Need Help? We’ve Got Your Back
If your roof is leaking—or you’re worried about storm damage—don’t wait until it gets worse. Browns Roofing is here to help you figure out:
- What caused the leak
- If your insurance will cover it
- What to do next
We work with all major insurance carriers in Louisiana and can even meet with your adjuster to advocate on your behalf.
👉 Contact Browns Roofing today for a free roof inspection and insurance guidance.
